Wapsi River Environmental News
Summer 2009
Scott County Conservation Board’s Environmental Education Newsletter
www.scottcountyiowa.com/conservation/wapsi.php
The Wapsi River Center is owned, managed and operated by the Scott County Conservation Board with
programming and development assistance from the Clinton County Conservation Board.
Wapsi Center Happenings
by Dave Murcia, Director
Another Successful EDIWILD 2009
This year’s (June 22-25) theme was “Rivers Run Thru It”
and included such subjects as anatomy of a river,
Mississippi River tours, flora/fauna of a river and
canoeing/kayaking. The workshop uses an
interdisciplinary approach to facilitate the incorporation
of environmental education into the school curriculum.
Thirty-seven educators completed the workshop where
staff development and graduate credit were available
through Area Education Agency 9 and Drake University.
The workshop was sponsored by the following
partnerships: Wapsi River Environmental Education
Center, Scott and Clinton County Conservation Boards,
Nahant Marsh Education Field Center, Eastern Iowa
Community College District, River Action Inc. with
support from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the
Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
Scott County Conservation Board Seeks
Candidates for AmeriCorps Program
The Scott County Conservation Board (SCCB) is
currently a participating member of the Eastern Iowa
Conservation Alliance (EICA) and once again has been
awarded an AmeriCorps grant through
the Corporation for National Service
and the Iowa Commission on Volunteer
Service. The SCCB is seeking 2 fulltime members, please see the following
information:
POSITION: The AmeriCorps Member(s) selected for
this position will assist the Wapsi River Environmental
Education Center (Center) staff in development and
implementation of environmental education programs
and activities including volunteer coordination, as well as
development and maintenance of a 225-acre residential
environmental education center. To learn more about the
Center please visit: www.scottcountyiowa.com/
conservation/wapsi.php
DESCRIPTION: The AmeriCorps Member(s) will serve
in planning and conducting programs for schools, youth
groups and the general public, as well as all other aspects
of environmental education including interpretive
displays, exhibits and events. Service will also include
assisting in development and maintenance of the Center
including facility and trail maintenance, landscape
maintenance, natural resource restoration projects, animal
care, etc.
QUALIFICATIONS: Successful candidates must: be a
U.S. citizen, be at least 17 years of age, certify that he/
she has a high school diploma, GED, or agrees to obtain
one while under service, possess an interest in the
outdoors and natural resources, have the ability to work
outside in all weather conditions in a variety of work
schedules and possess a valid driver’s license. The
member must also have the ability to work with people of
all ages including staff from a variety of County
departments. Post high school education/ training in
education, natural resources, or related field preferred but
not required.
ENROLLMENT TERM: 1700 hours beginning Sept. 1,
2009, option to renew term.
BENEFITS: A 1st term full-time Member receives a
living allowance of $1,000/month; while a 2nd term
Member receives an allowance of $1,275/month. Full
time Members receive a $4,725 education award upon
completion of the term, student loan deferment, health
insurance, training, travel, safety equipment funding,
AmeriCorps gear and real world experience while
serving your community. Members will also have
opportunities to participate in a variety of trainings/
conferences including but not limited to: EICA monthly
service days, the Iowa Commission on Volunteer Service
Conference, first aid/CPR, IAN (Iowa Association of
Naturalists) conferences, IACCB Winterfest Conference
and various trainings in support of program mission.
TO APPLY: Send application letter and résumé to: Dave
Murcia ~ Wapsi River Environmental Education Center
~ 31555 52nd Avenue ~ Dixon, Iowa 52745 or email to:
[email protected]. To learn more about
AmeriCorps visit: www.americorps.org.
view/download our Field Trip Planner. School
programs are not scheduled for Mondays so that staff
may work on administration and resource management.
Don’t forget – The Wapsi River Center is a place for all
seasons!!
Volunteer Stewardship Workday
Join local environmental education
agencies in a new summer
program geared towards getting
kids outdoors while learning about
the environment! Activities
include: GPS scavenger hunt/
compasses, farm to farmer’s
market, creek stomping
& bug catching and a
season ending family
overnight camp-out!
Please call (563) 468-4218 or visit: www.ilivehereqc to
register or for more information. All activities are
weather dependent.
The Wapsi River Center will host a “Garden Party”
workday (weather permitting) with support from the
Friends of the Wapsi Center, Inc. on Saturday,
September 12 from 9:00 A.M. - Noon. An emphasis will
be on planning and constructing a Native American and
pioneer garden for future program needs. Other potential
projects include prairie brush
removal and transplanting/
landscaping. In appreciation for
all the hard work and dedication,
lunch will be provided by the
Friends of the Wapsi Center,
Inc. after the event. (Hang around
for the Beautiful Butterflies
program at 1 P.M.!) To register
and volunteer or learn more about
the Friends group, call the Wapsi
River Center at (563) 328-3286.
Programs of the Wapsi River Center
Scout Opportunities
During this 2008-2009 school year approximately 5,598
students, teachers and parents participated in 108 field
trips. A total of 276 public presentations were attended
by 2,707 participants and kept staff busy considering
May and June was fully booked. At our Earth Week Fair
booth we saw a total of about 3,322 visitors.
The Wapsi River Center continues to support the Scouts
of America by providing limited camp space to local
troops. Scouts may use Elm and Vincent campsites in
return for service projects ranging from habitat/wildlife
management to trail maintenance. The former Camp
Minneyata is ideal for an Eagle Scout Project! Please
call the Illowa Council at (563) 388-7233 for official tour
permits and the Wapsi River Center at (563) 328-3286
for project proposals.
New Summer Program ~ Quad City
Enviro-Kids
If you would like to schedule a field trip, please schedule
as far in advance as possible and visit our website to
Hellos & Goodbyes
Cassie Druhl ~ Alas, my second term as an AmeriCorps
Naturalist is coming to an end. I seriously can’t believe I’ve
been here as long as I have. I am really going to miss working
at the Wapsi River Center because I’ve learned so much in my
time here. I came in as a new college graduate with a
Communication Studies degree (not your typical new
naturalist) not knowing exactly how this job would relate to my
major. However, I was pleasantly surprised at how much of my
schooling really was put to use doing programs and writing for
The W.R.E.N. I have been trained in things I never would have
imagined, such as chainsaws, canoeing/kayaking and fire
fighting – just to name a few. I learned to appreciate getting
my hands dirty, in certain situations like mussel cleaning and
pond studies, something I hastily avoided two years ago. This
has truly been a life-changing experience; one that I hope to use
as a springboard into a new career. No plans for future
employment yet, but I’m keeping my hopes up as I apply for
jobs related to conservation. I would like to thank the Wapsi
staff for being so encouraging and patient as I shed my girly
side, and for being such great teachers who have really opened
my eyes to the possibilities a career in conservation has to offer.
It’s been great!
Mary Johnson ~ How lucky I am to have been a part of
something that makes saying goodbye so hard. Since April of
2008, I have been an AmeriCorps naturalist here at the Wapsi
River Center. It has been an awesome and life changing
experience full of new and exciting adventures! I want to thank
everyone who has made it so wonderful. The memories and
lessons that I have learned while working throughout Scott
County and throughout the state of Iowa are ones that I’ll carry
with me for the rest of my life. Although I’m not sure exactly
where I will go from here, I have great hopes to continue in the
field of environmental education. I also plan on continuing on
with my own education in the coming years. Thank you again
for this amazing experience! Good-luck to the new
AmeriCorps naturalists who will be starting in the fall. My
advise, enjoy every moment – I did!
Cecilia Braam
Rosie Dressen
Maraget Paulos
George & Helen Bentrott
Mary Rourke
K.J. Rebarcak
Nick Johnson
Carl Gerwulf
Jen Owens
Bill Robbins
Lucia Dryanski
The Cleve Family
Linda Gerwulf
Erma Wiszmann
Pamela Ellis
Carol Rogers
Deana Alden
Ingrid Bogdanowicz
Vivian Norton
Bob Bryant
Dave Huber
Jacqueline Stepaniak
Dottie Wala
Robert Fisher
Audrey Hines
Murcia Girls & Charlotte
Mr. & Mrs. Varcho
Mark Stepaniak
Matt Gebhart
East Central Elementary
Ridgewood School
Hillcrest Elementary
Blackhawk Hiking Club
Girl Scout Troop 2558
Camp Conestoga
Gander Mountain
R E I R R A H N R E H T R O N WM A V C
A M E R I C A N K E S T R E L N I O R D
Try to find the following birds of
prey in this word puzzle. Look
forward, backward and diagonal:
Accipiter
American Kestrel
Cooper’s Hawk
Crested Caracara
Northern Goshawk
Prairie Falcon
Mississippi Kite
Northern Harrier
Red-tailed Hawk
Swainson’s Hawk
Golden Eagle
Gyrfalcon
Bald Eagle
Merlin
Osprey
J P C Z R P A S T R Y E R P S O S E K A
K N O A E V L WK Z A I O D B R S T G C
A O O I D T G A F E J U F K O T I U O C
R C P O T V Y I Y E R A S O E H S B L I
K L E N A V R N O I L N O D X E S L D P
E A R A I E F S J C I T C A R R I C E I
A F S L L L A O O L D A A WY N P A N T
G E H R E G L N M E R L I N P G P T E E
R I A E D A C S I A MA N D D O I A A R
R R WM H E O H C N E Y R I E S K L G K
N I K D A D N A R S R Y O Z Z H I O L T
Y A I R WL R W F A L K O N S A T N E R
D R N G K A R K D A I C I D E WE S O T
Answers at end of
Summer Events.
M P Y C N B F W I R O T P A R K D MA G
A page dedicated to the Friends of the Wapsi Center, Inc. – a citizens support group of the Wapsi River E. E. Center
Volunteer Profile - Dottie Wala
Dottie Wala, a retired library media
specialist, grew up in suburban
Philadelphia, PA as one of four
siblings. She came by her love of
nature honestly, describing her family
as “rabid outdoor enthusiasts.” During
her growing up years, she recalls the
family taking drives in the country
every weekend. Her parent’s dream
was to own a piece of land with woods
and water. Eventually, her parents
found and bought a piece of land that fit
the bill, and the family named it “Three Corners,” due to its
triangular shape. Thereafter, the weekend trips were to their
land – with her parents working on the land with saws and
loppers and Dottie and her siblings exploring the stream,
woods and adjacent farms.
Each year, during the summer, her father had a one-week
vacation and her mom would plan a family trip to a different
Pennsylvania State Park. When Dottie was in 10th grade, the
family took their “USA Big Parks Tour,” seeing the California
Redwoods and the Dakota Badlands, among other places.
Dottie went to college in Ohio, studying education, and then
met and married her husband Jerry. Jerry’s first teaching job
was in Alaska, a place Dottie always wanted to explore, so the
couple packed all their belongings into their used Chrysler and
hit the road. On the way to Alaska, they went through the
Canadian National Parks of Banff and Jasper, where Dottie
Attention, Friends Group Supporters!
Thanks to the efforts of our AmeriCorps Naturalist Cassie
Druhl (2007-2009) and the support of our own Friends of the
Wapsi Center, Inc. (501 3c) members, a new community
fundraising opportunity has now been established! In
recognition and support of the efforts and commitment made to
environmental education at the Wapsi River Environmental
Education Center, Schnucks will contribute a percentage of
your purchase to the Friends Group every
time you shop, just present your card to
the cashier. This community effort is just
one way the Scott County Conservation
Board has initiated sustainable practices
within the workplace to improve the
quality of life within Scott County!
Ask for an eScrip Community Card at the Schnucks service
saw her first elk. Her biggest disappointment in Alaska was
the amount of land covered by muskeg (a peat bog consisting
of dead plants in various stages of decomposition and a water
level near the surface), which really cramped her style when it
came to hiking! After two years in Alaska, Dottie & Jerry
moved to Seattle (where they climbed in the Cascades and
hiked Mount St. Helens with their young son before the
eruption), and then to Iowa.
Dottie has been a member of the Friends of the Wapsi Center
since its beginnings in January of 1993. She saw a newspaper
item about the first Friends’ meeting, and thought, “that’s
something I need to be involved in.” There were 6-8 people at
that first meeting, organized by Bob Bryant (then Director of
the Wapsi River Center). In the early days, Dottie was at the
Center almost every week, working on buildings that were
under renovation and clearing trails. In the years since, Dottie
has been involved in a myriad of activities, including hosting
the Center on weekends,
Winter Fun Days, volunteer
Vital Statistics
workdays, staffing the
Center’s booth at Bald Eagle Friend Since: January 1993
Favorite Plant: Lily of the
Days, helping with visiting
Valley (cultivated)
school groups and youth
Bedstraw (wild)
groups during the summer.
Favorite Bird: Cardinal
When asked why folks
Favorite Animal: Squirrel
should join the Friends’
Favorite Tree: Burr Oak
group, Dottie replies, “You
Favorite Book: Stewart Little
just learn so much from the
Favorite Nature Book:
other people in the group,
A Walk in the Woods
and it’s a fun group of
Favorite Movie: Never Cry
people to be with.”
Wolf
counter and follow the instructions on the front sticker. When
calling to activate your card, state you are supporting the
Friends of the Wapsi Center, Inc. in zip code 52745 with ID#
500021569. It is that simple and the cards come in two
convenient sizes – one for your wallet and one to attach to your
key ring.
You can read more about the
Friends Group and their
environmental education efforts
on their webpage at:
www.scottcountyiowa.com/
conservation/wapsi_friends.php
and to learn more about
the eScrip Community Card
program go to: www.schnucks.com
and click on the eScrip
Community Card link.
Living Green - Ready, Set, Compost!
by Mary Johnson, AmeriCorps Naturalist
Are you someone who makes a New Year’s resolution
every year, but have a hard time sticking with it? I was
that way too, so this year I wanted to try something
different. Instead, I decided to try a “green resolution.”
This past Earth Day I made a goal for myself – learn how
to compost. Although it’s taken me awhile to get going,
I’ve discovered that composting can be a really easy and
economical activity that everyone can do. Here are some
tips and tricks to help you get started.
Compost 101
Composting is the process of turning organic plant and
animal material into useful, nutrient-rich, decomposed
matter a.k.a. “black gold” or humus. It is a natural
process in the environment; however, people have
utilized composting since before biblical times.
Composting can be done large scale, as community
compost sites, or small scale with backyard bins and even
kitchen countertop units! By composting kitchen scraps
and yard clippings, you help reduce the amount of solid
waste that ends up in landfills. It can also give your
garden or house plants a healthy, chemical-free boost.
Getting Started
For those who are new to
composting or those who live in an
urban area, container composting is
an easy way to get started. Many
internet sites have directions on how
to build your own outdoor container;
however, many garden stores also
sell a variety of different sizes and
types of composting containers. A simple coffee can
makes a nice indoor/countertop compost container.
First, choose a location to set up your compost bin. Two
basic types of bins are open container and closed
container. There are benefits and drawbacks to each, so
you’ll have to decide what works best for your needs.
Both can produce amazing compost, if you add the right
ingredients. Two chambers are better than one when
using a compost bin. It will help you produce more
useful compost quicker. Other tools that may be useful
in the composting process are: a shovel or trowel,
pitchfork, garden cart or wheelbarrow and a compost
thermometer.
The next step is adding the key ingredients. Basically,
food, water and air are what the microorganisms (i.e.
bacteria, fungi and invertebrates) need to help you make
compost. Water and air are the easy part, but a well
balanced diet of different food elements will require
some consideration. The food portion consists of 1 part
green (nitrogen) to 4-5 parts brown
(carbon) by volume. Examples of greens
are: fresh grass clippings, fresh manure,
kitchen scraps (fruits, veggies, coffee
grounds and tea bags), human hair and
weeds/green leaves. Examples of browns are: brown/dry
leaves, dried grass, yard debris, dried
corncobs, straw, sawdust and stale bread.
The smaller your organic materials are,
going into the bin, the faster it will
decompose. There are some items that
should not be added to compost bins.
These items include: meat, fish, bones, fats/oil, dairy/
cheese, pet waste, plastic, metal or newspaper.
Commonly Asked Questions
Will it stink? No, or at least it shouldn’t. Monitoring
your bin and making sure that the ingredients are
balanced will help insure low to no odor and will also
help to avoid attracting pests.
How long does the process take? Results can vary.
However, if you create a nice, “hot” pile of ingredients
(95°-130°F +) and the materials that you added were
chopped up nice and small, your compost may be ready
in just a few weeks. Your compost is “done” when is has
a crumbly texture, is a dark color and has a pleasant
“earthy” smell. The temperature of the compost at that
time will be right around air temperature. Try and use
your compost as soon as it is ready, since it tends to lose
some of its nutrients the longer it sits.
I hope that this short introduction to composting gets you
as excited about it as I am. Making small “green”
differences in your home can make a huge difference for
the earth.
For more information about composting, head over to
your local library. You’ll be amazed how many books
have been written about this topic. (For a more in depth
look at composting, the Spring 1998 edition of The
W.R.E.N. has an article available
upon request. Contact the Wapsi
River Center for a copy.) Listed
below are some websites that
helped me get started. Good luck
and don’t be afraid to get dirty!
www.howtocompost.org ~ www.compost.org/qna.html ~
www.rrfb.com/pages/compost/Complan.html ~ www.
gaiam.com/category/eco-home-outdoor/outdoor/
composting.do
July
10th ~ Canoe and Kayak Tour ~ 6:00 P.M. ~ Pride
Lake, Scott County Park ~ Come learn the basics of
canoeing and kayaking while
you paddle around Pride
Lake. Programming includes
water safety, instruction and
equipment (please bring your
own gear if you wish). This
event is weather dependent
and pre-registration is
required by calling (563) 3283286. NOTE: this program
meets requirements for participation in the August 15
river float.
13th - 17th ~ Native American Week ~ 9:00 A.M. - 3:00
P.M. Daily ~ Dan Nagle Walnut Grove Pioneer
Village ~ Visit the Hauberg Indian Museum, discover
Indian sign language, make an Apache scroll and dream
catcher, plus many other crafts. Learn what the Indians
wore and face painting. Take a canoe ride at West Lake
Park (life jackets provided)! This day camp is geared for
children 6-11 years of age. Call (563) 328-3283 for
registration information.
18th ~ Quad City Enviro-kids: GPS Scavenger Hunt
and Compasses ~ 9:00
A.M. - Noon ~ Nahant
Marsh ~ Sign up for this
brand new summer
program for 3rd - 5th
graders. Learn about
Global Positioning
Systems and using a map
and compass. Call (563)
468-4218 or visit www.ilivehereqc.org for more details.
18th ~ Menke Open House ~ Dusk ~ Wapsi River
Center ~ Join Dr. Mitchell, Director of the Monsignor
Menke Observatory, for a tour of the summer sky.
Please call (563) 333-6141 on the day of the event to find
out if the weather conditions will permit viewing.
20th - 24th ~ Laura Ingalls Wilder Week ~ 9:00 A.M. 3:00 P.M. Daily ~ Dan Nagle
Walnut Grove Pioneer
Village ~ Learn what life was
like for Laura Ingalls.
Experience how she lived by
spending time in a 1830s
cabin and a one-room
schoolhouse. Enjoy making
crafts such as soap decorating, candle dipping and much
more. This day camp is geared for children 6-11 years of
age. Call (563) 328-3283 for registration information.
25th ~ Canoe and Kayak Tour ~ 9:00 A.M. ~ Lake of
the Hills, West Lake Park ~ Come learn the basics of
canoeing and kayaking while you paddle around Lake of
the Hills. Programming includes water safety, instruction
and equipment (please bring your own gear if you wish).
This event is weather dependent and pre-registration is
required by calling (563) 328-3286. NOTE: this
program meets requirement for participation in the
August 15 river float.
26th ~ Village Alive! ~
1:00 - 5:00 P.M. ~ Dan
Nagle Walnut Grove
Pioneer Village ~ See
the village come alive
as "The Friends" of the
village reenact life as it
was on the 1890s Iowa
prairie. Enjoy folk art
demonstrations
throughout the day.
Admission is FREE!
For further information,
call (563) 328-3283.
27th - 31st ~ Frontier Week ~ 9:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M.
Daily ~ Dan Nagle Walnut Grove Pioneer Village ~
Enjoy a week doing what the pioneers did in the 1800s.
Enjoy many activities such as a wagon ride, frontier
cooking, pioneer games and much more. This week, we
will visit the Niabi Zoo and learn about animals. This
day camp is geared for children 6-11 years of age. Call
(563) 328-3283 for registration information.
August
1st ~ Quad City Enviro-kids:
Farm to Farmer’s Market ~ 9:00
A.M. - Noon ~ Freight House ~
Sign up for this brand new
summer program for 3rd - 5th
graders. Meet at the Freight
House Farmer’s Market, 421 West
Call to reserve a spot; (563) 328-3286.
14th - 16th ~ Hunter Safety Education Camp ~ 6:00
P.M. (Fri) - 4:00 P.M. (Sun) ~ Wapsi River Center ~
Standard hunter safety courses are 10 hours long. In this
event, we will go far beyond the basics. In addition to all
of the hunter education standards, we will be teaching
advanced shooting techniques, bowhunter safety,
trapping, waterfowl, turkey & raccoon hunting, dog
River Drive in Davenport, to learn about natural
training, caring for game in the field, first aid, wildlife
homegrown produce and goods. Students will then visit
ID, calling and a whole lot more! All these activities will
“Miss Effie’s” a farm near Donahue to see how a farm
allow students to actually
operates. Call (563) 468-4218 or visit www.ilivehereqc.
participate, not just listen to
org for more details.
speakers or watch films. The
3rd - 7th ~ Nahant Marsh Junior course is open to kids, age 11Conservationist Day Camp ~
16, whether or not they have
9:30 A.M. - 3:30 P.M. ~ Nahant
received the Hunter Education
Marsh ~ This camp is for children Certificates already. Cost per
ages 9-12 will allow kids to learn
student is $35 for meals.
and explore the natural world,
Clinton County students are
renewable energy and history as it $10 thanks to a donation from
relates to the environment. Lunch, Clinton County Pheasants Forever. Clinton Area
snacks and beverages will be
Whitetails Unlimited will be providing monetary support
provided. Conservation field kits
to help cover the cost of lodging, ammunition and targets
will be given to each participant. Cost is $60. To learn
for the participants. Overnight chaperones will be
more about activities, scholarships or registration, call
provided by participants' parents. Space is limited to 50
(563) 326-7812 or go to www.nahantmarsh.org.
kids, so sign up early by calling (563) 847-7202.
8th ~ Everything Cattail ~ 10:00 A.M. ~ Wapsi River
Center ~ Come learn about the amazing cattail with this
hands-on workshop. Learn how they grow and make an
awesome cattail crafts to take home. Call to reserve a
spot; (563) 328 -3286.
8th ~ Gander
Mountain Outdoor
Expo Day ~ 10:00
A.M. - 4:00 P.M. ~
Davenport Gander
Mountain Store ~
Come join Dave
Murcia, Wapsi River Center director, as well as other
local partners in outdoor education for a fun day of
activities for the whole family! Wapsi River Center
activities will include water and boating safety. Call
Gander Mountain representative, Adam Nupp at (563)
344-8880 for more details.
8th ~ The Madagascar Experience ~ 1:00
P.M. ~ Wapsi River Center ~ Katie van
der Linden will share her three week
experience in Madagascar through photos.
Amazing lemurs, chameleons and boa
constrictors were a few of the natural
highlights. This isn't like any
DreamWorks movie you've ever seen!
15th ~ Quad City Enviro-kids: Creek Stomping and
Bug Catching ~ 9:00 A.M. - Noon ~ Crow Creek ~
Sign up for this brand new summer program for 3rd - 5th
graders. Join Amy
Johansen, coordinator
for the Partners of
Scott County
Watersheds, to learn
about Bettendorf’s
Crow Creek. Learn
about water testing and
catch live critters
which call the creek
their home. Call (563)
468-4218 or visit
www.ilivehereqc.org
for more details.
15th ~ Wapsipinicon River Float ~ 9:00 A.M. - 3:00
P.M. (approximate return time) ~ Wapsi River
Center access to Allen’s Grove Park ~ Join us for a 10mile canoe trip down one of the last wildly scenic and
free-flowing rivers left in Iowa. A minimal $20
registration fee per canoe is required by Wednesday,
August 12, so please register early as these floats fill
quickly! Participants are required to have canoe
experience and may attend the July 10 or 25 canoe/kayak
tours to meet this requirement.
Register by calling (563) 3283286 with names, phone number
of where you may be reached on
morning of float, and life jacket
sizes needed (less than 50 lbs.,
50-90 lbs. or over 90 lbs.).
Participants may bring their own
life jacket, provided it is US Coast Guard approved.
Each canoe holds a maximum of: 2 adults/1 youth, 1
adult/2 youth or 2 adults/2 smaller youths. Participants
will meet at Alan’s Grove Landing 4.5 miles north of
Donahue, Iowa. Participants must bring: adequate water,
sunscreen, appropriate clothing (clothes & footwear that
can get wet/dirty), and a sack lunch. This canoe float is
weather and river dependent and we will provide
canoes, paddles, life jackets and coolers for lunches. For
more info on this Iowa DNR Water Trail visit
www.iowadnr.gov/watertrails/index.
15th ~ Menke Open House ~
Dusk ~ Wapsi River Center ~
Join Dr. Mitchell, Director of
the Monsignor Menke
Observatory, for a tour of the
summer sky. Please call (563)
333-6141 on the day of the
event to find out if the weather
conditions will permit viewing.
21st - 23rd ~ Fourth Annual LWRCP ~ Lower
Wapsipinicon River Cleanup Project ~ 8:00 A.M. 4:00 P.M. ~ Rock Creek Marina & Campground ~
Please join us again to clean up the Wapsi. We will begin
Saturday morning at Walter's Landing near McCausland,
IA and finish at Rock Creek. Base camp for Friday and
Saturday nights will be at Rock Creek Marina. Tent
camping is free; cabins and electrical sites are available
at your own expense. Showers, flush toilets and running
water will be available at the campground. Friday night
is optional, but the community campfire is fun. You must
be checked in prior to 8:00 A.M. Saturday morning.
Saturday evening's naturalist lead programs will add to
your knowledge of rivers and their inhabitants.
Participants may feed
themselves or order catered
meals in advance with their
registration. This includes
all three meals on Saturday,
and breakfast and lunch on
Sunday. There are also
convenience stores and
restaurants in the
surrounding towns. Tshirts can also be ordered.
A limited number of canoes, paddles, and orange
"keyhole" PFDs will be provided free though you may
want to use your own. PFD's will be worn at all times
while participants are on the river. For more information
please contact Melisa Petersen at coordinator@
lowerwapsicleanup.org.
22nd ~ X-stream Cleanup 2009 ~ 8:30 A.M. - Noon ~
Quad Cities ~ The X-stream cleanup is a Quad Citywide cleanup of creeks, drainage ways and sections of
the Mississippi and Rock Rivers. For more information
about volunteering, visit www.xstreamcleanup.org.
28th & 29th ~ Quad City
Enviro-Kids: Wapsi River
Center Family Campout ~
7:00 P.M. (Fri) - 10:00 A.M.
(Sat) ~ Wapsi River Center ~
Join us as we conclude the
summer’s Environ-Kids
program with a good old-fashioned campout, complete
with hiking, exploring and cooking over a campfire.
Please bring your own tent – some tents are available
upon request. Dormitory-style sleeping is also available
for a nominal fee. Call (563) 468-4218 or visit
www.ilivehereqc.org for more details.
September
6th & 7th ~ Pioneer
Village Fall Festival ~
11:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.
Daily ~ Dan Nagle
Walnut Grove Pioneer
Village ~ Enjoy a fall
harvest in the Village.
Period dressed “Friends”
will demonstrate crafts and
sell their wares. Food, music, crafts and fun for all!
Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for children.
10th ~ Nahant Marsh Bus Tour ~ 8:00 A.M. - Noon ~
Meet at Duck Creek Lodge in Bettendorf ~ Join
conservation experts and tour various sites to learn
hands-on identification and best control options for
invasive plants in the late growing season. As time
allows, we will be touring areas of Duck Creek Park,
Black Hawk Historic Site, Nahant Marsh, Fairmount
Cemetery and
Sunderbruch Park. To
register; call ISU Scott
County Extension at
(563) 359-7577.
12th ~ Volunteer Stewardship Day,
“Garden Party” ~ 9:00 A.M. - Noon ~
Wapsi River Center ~ Join Wapsi staff
in projects related to native plants
including invasive species/brush removal,
landscape transplanting and Native
American and early pioneer gardening.
An emphasis will be on planning and
constructing a native garden site for future
program needs. This event is weather
dependent and all ages are welcome. Register to
volunteer at (563) 328-3286. In appreciation for
volunteer efforts, lunch will be provided by the Friends
of the Wapsi Center after the workday.
will also introduce our
newest inhabitant – a great
horned owl! A night hike
after the indoor portion
will finish out the
program. Register for this
program by calling (563)
328-3286
Answers to Kids’ Corner
R E I R R A H N R E H T R O N WM A V C
A M E R I C A N K E S T R E L N I O R D
12th ~ Beautiful Butterflies ~
1:00 P.M. ~ Wapsi River
Center ~ Come learn about
those amazing butterflies. We
will be catching and identifying
butterflies on the prairie and
make-n-take a butterfly craft.
Call (563) 328-3286 to register.
J P C Z R P A S T R Y E R P S O S E K A
K N O A E V L WK Z A I O D B R S T G C
A O O I D T G A F E J U F K O T I U O C
R C P O T V Y I Y E R A S O E H S B L I
K L E N A V R N O I L N O D X E S L D P
E A R A I E F S J C I T C A R R I C E I
A F S L L L A O O L D A A WY N P A N T
12th ~ Menke Open House ~ Dusk ~ Wapsi River
Center ~ Join Dr. Mitchell, Director of the Monsignor
Menke Observatory, for a tour of the summer sky.
Please call (563) 333-6141 on the day of the event to find
out if the weather conditions will permit viewing.
G E H R E G L N M E R L I N P G P T E E
R I A E D A C S I A M A N D D O I A A R
R R WM H E O H C N E Y R I E S K L G K
N I K D A D N A R S R Y O Z Z H I O L T
Y A I R WL R WF A L K O N S A T N E R
19th ~ Birds of Prey; Great Horned Owl ~ 7:00 P.M. ~
Wapsi River Center ~ Join Director Dave Murcia to
learn about birds of prey that are native to our area. We
D R N G K A R K D A I C I D E WE S O T
M P Y C N B F W I R O T P A R K D M A G
House Cleaning on the Mississippi
by Mary Johnson, AmeriCorps Naturalist
On June 20, several of the Wapsi River Center staff joined in with a group
from Exelon Nuclear to clean mussels in the Mississippi River. The group
began just upriver from the Cordova boat ramp and visited three different
mussel beds. Their goal was to find native mussels such as: pocketbook,
wartyback, heelsplitter, pigtoe, sandshell and the endangered Higgin’s eye.
Once these mussels were located, participants removed the invasive zebra
mussels by hand. Zebra mussels attach to various native
mussels as well as virtually any stationery object in
the water. They attach in such great numbers that
they can inhabit natural movement and even
suffocate their hosts. Overall, it was a
successful event with around 40 lbs. of Zebra
mussels removed! I hope this cooperative effort
becomes an annual event.
Wildlife Profile - Green Hydra
by Michael Granger, Naturalist
If you have visited the Wapsi River Center, formerly
Camp Minneyata, you know that there is an old
swimming pool which has been reclaimed by Mother
Nature. The pool now contains a vast array of plant and
animal species. A variety of frog species, dragonflies,
water striders, whirligig beetles and spectacular fishing
spiders are just some of the larger organisms inhabiting
this watery world. With a microscope, this world can be
explored even further. Let me introduce to you a habitat
unlike any other, below the surface of this tranquil
setting.
When conducting a pond study with one of the many
school groups visiting the Wapsi River Center, a class
discovered a truly amazing creature, the Green Hydra –
Chlorohydra viridissima. Hydras are related to jellyfish,
sea anemone and coral all of which belong to the phylum
Cnidaria. This phylum has 11,000 saltwater species.
Approximately 50 species are found in freshwater,
making the hydra a unique find.
Hydras attach themselves to the underside of floating
duckweed or other aquatic vegetation with a structure
called the basal disc (see diagram). They have a simple
bell or sac-like body with a mouth centered within the
bell. Hydras have six to ten “oral arms” or tentacles
which help them capture prey. The green hydra contains
single celled algae known as chorella which give them
their lime green color. The algae benefits by living in a
safe environment and gaining nutrients from food eaten
by the hydra.
Tentacles
Hydras which
contain green
algae, have been
reported to live
longer without
Mouth
food than hydras
which do not
contain the algae;
Body Cavity therefore, this
symbiotic
relationship
appears to benefit
Basal Disc
both species.
When attached, hydras are able to move there bodies by
the use of muscles and hydraulic pressure. By drawing
water into their digestive cavity, they are able to extend
from 0.5 mm to 20 mm in length. Hydras have three
modes of locomotion. They can glide across a substrate
via their basal disc, somersault towards their destination,
or use an air bubble to rise to the surface, while
suspended upside down, and be transported by the
surface tension of the water.
Gliding
Somersaulting
Surface Tension
Hydras are carnivorous and feed on small organism
found in the water. As with their relatives, hydras have a
number of different types of stinging cells called
nematocysts on their tentacles. Coiled tubes are shot out
at any passing prey which has had the misfortune to
touch a tentacle. The prey gets all tangled up and unable
to move. A second kind of nematocyst, which may have
barbs or spines on it, is also fired into the prey. These
release toxins into the prey which paralyze it. Once a
nematocyst is fired, its existence is over, but hydras
continually produce new ones in order to be ready for
their next meal. These microscopic stinging cells have
no affect on human beings, due to their minute size.
Hydras reproduce in two ways throughout the year. The
first method involves a new hydra budding from the
“parent” hydra’s body wall. The young hydra shares the
same body cavity with its parent until it pinches off and
begins a life on its own. This type of reproduction occurs
during the warmer months of the year. Hydras are either
female or male. As winter approaches, females will
produce eggs and deposit them in areas which are then
later fertilized by nearby males. These eggs are tough
and can last through the winter months, ensuring future
populations of hydras into the following year.
Hydras are fascinating creatures and can be found in our
local waters. Just learning about their mysterious ways
makes me appreciate the lives they lead. I look forward
to future visits to the Osprey Aquatic Lab and hope to
find more amazing creatures below the surface.
Plant Profile - Wild Leek
edible. Other states that participate in ramp festivals are
Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, Kentucky, South
Carolina and Pennsylvania. They are most commonly
by Cassie Druhl, AmeriCorps Naturalist
fried with potatoes in bacon grease or scrambled with
eggs and served with bacon, pinto beans and cornbread.
Every year, hikers can enjoy hundreds of species of
Wild leeks used to be just as popular in parts of Canada,
plants found in woodland habitats and parks around
but because they are not as prevalent as they once were,
Iowa. We use our sense of smell to soak in sweet
they are now a protected species (with only a certain
perfume and take time to look at the bright colors and
number of plants allowed to be harvested every year) and
patterns. However, most people wouldn’t think about
tasting these plants. The wild leek, Allium tricoccum, is a are considered a rare delicacy.
wild edible found at the Wapsi River Center and other
Here are a few simple wild leek recipes (courtesy of
rich wooded areas in the Midwest and Canada. This
Minnesota Out-of-Doors Magazine):
plant, also known as the ramp, ramson, or spring onion in
certain parts of the country, is a member of the lily
May Basket Salad
family and a relative of the onion. It adds flavor to any
1 bunch leaf or head lettuce
recipe, while also providing certain health benefits.
Bulbs and leaves from 1 dozen wild leeks
Found in damp woodland habitats, the wild leek can
reach a size of 6 to 8 inches tall. It has small, white bulbs
with purplish stems from which wide leaves grow in
large patches. The plant usually doesn’t spread too far
because of the prolific invasive species – garlic mustard.
The leaves develop in late-March and start to turn yellow
and wither away in early-July. Then, it develops a naked
flowering stalk up to 1½ feet tall. The flowers are white
and are ¼ inch long with petals in
spherical clusters. In mid autumn,
the flowers are replaced with glossy
black seeds. Every part of the plant
is edible and has a distinct onion
smell. However, most animals
rarely eat them, with the exception
of bees who are also responsible for
pollinating the plant. Wild leek contains large amounts
of vitamin C and vitamin A, equal to other plants like
oranges and spinach. It also can lower cholesterol just
like garlic. Edible morel mushrooms are also commonly
found growing around wild leeks.
Native American tribes all around the Midwest used the
wild leek in recipes, replacing onions or garlic, and found
that it was a nutritious complement to buffalo meat. It
was also found to be very tasty on its own as a vegetable.
The city of Chicago supposedly got its name from the
Potawatomi word “Checagou" (Chick-Ah-Goo-Ah) or
"Checaguar," that means “wild onions” or “skunk”
because of the vast amount of wild leeks that used to
cover the area and gave off a very strong odor.
In the present day, many towns in the United States host
“Ramp Festivals” that celebrate the many uses of the
wild leek. In Richwood, West Virginia’s annual “Feast
of the Ramson” (the ramp capital of the world), festivalgoers share recipes and participate in ramp-eating
contests; plus enjoy many dinners prepared with the wild
1 cup violets, whole blossoms and leaves
2 cups whole watercress
A few additional wild leeks and violets to garnish
Tear lettuce into bite-size pieces. Slice bulbs and tear
leaves of wild leek into pieces. Toss with whole violets
and watercress. Garnish with additional whole leaves,
bulbs and blossoms to decorate. Excellent with either
creamy or tangy salad dressings. Serves 6.
Creamed Wild Leek Soup
2 cups wild leek bulbs, halved lengthwise
1 cup wild leek leaves, chopped
¼ cup butter
3 tablespoons flour
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 egg yolks
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper
Minced wild leek leaves
Sauté wild leek bulbs and chopped leaves in butter over
low heat. When tender, stir in flour, mixing well.
Slowly whisk in 6 cups of broth then simmer 30 minutes,
stirring occasionally. Whisk together egg yolks and ⅔
cup cream until blended; slowly whisk mixture into soup,
a little at a time, then raise heat and bring to a near
boil. Stir until thickened. Salt and pepper to taste. Whip
remaining ⅓ cup cream; top each serving with a generous
spoonful then garnish with minced wild leek leaves.
Serves 6.
The wild leek is definitely a “fleeting” spring and
summer treat because there is a narrow window of time
to harvest these plants in peak condition. Thus, many
people around the country spend lots of hours hunting
them. Remember, if you choose to gather wild leeks,
make sure that it is permitted in the area you find them
in. Happy hunting, and don’t forget the breath mints!
WAPSI RIVER E. E. CENTER
31555 52ND AVENUE
DIXON, IA 52745
Tel: (563) 328-3286
Fax: (563) 843-2845
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~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Eagle View Eco Center Hours ~ Saturdays ~ 12:30 - 4:30 P.M. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Wapsi River Environmental Education Center is a joint project between the Scott and Clinton County
Conservation Boards. “The W.R.E.N.” is published quarterly by the Wapsi River Environmental Education Center
and the Scott County Conservation Board.
Scott County Conservation Board
Members:
John “Skip” O’Donnell
Carol Fennelly
Beth McAleer
Rich Mohr
Gene Weis
Director:
Roger Kean
Phone Numbers
Wapsi River Environmental Education Center
(563) 328-3286
Scott County Conservation Board
(563) 328-3280
Clinton County Conservation Board
(563) 847-7202
Wapsi River Environmental Education Center Staff
Scott County:
J. Dave Murcia, Director/Naturalist
Mike Granger, Naturalist
Lisa Gerwulf, Assistant Naturalist
Cassie Druhl, AmeriCorps Naturalist
Mary Johnson, AmeriCorps Naturlist
LeRoy Haeffner, Caretaker
Clinton County:
Mark Roberts, E. E. Coordinator
Chuck Jacobsen, Interpretative Naturalist
Jessica Steines, Interpretative Naturalist
Mailing List
If you would like to receive “The W.R.E.N.” and do not
have internet access, please send a post card to the Wapsi
River E. E. Center at the address above.
The Scott County Conservation Board in the provision of services and facilities to the public does not discriminate
against anyone on the basis of race, color, sex, creed, national origin, age or handicap. If anyone believes they have
been subject to discrimination, they may file a complaint alleging discrimination with either the Scott County
Conservation Board or the Office of Equal Opportunity, U.S. Department of Interior, Washington D.C. 20240.